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Harmonica Lessons.com visitors submit fiction or non-fiction short stories based on experiences that involve the harmonica or harmonica playing. If you would like to have a short story included in our collection, please note the procedures for submission in the bullet points on the Short Stories main page.
Bluzharper
I was on my way to work and stopped in a local Gin Mill to catch a
friends band. He is perhaps the baddest harp player in this part of the
country.
Seeing me in the crowd, he motioned me to come up to the stage. Knowing that I
always carry a harp with me, he asked if I wanted to blow one? I said,
"sure". Knowing all the band members, and how tight they play, I couldn't
refuse.
We went into a Swing Number and the dance floor filled. A fellow
slipped me a card as I left the stage, "call me" he said. I was asked to join
my first Blues Band when we talked. All night at work I kept thinking what
a great time I had on that stage, and what a wild ride this little harmonica
has taken me on.
Bluz Bonus: "Helpful Hints & Good Advice...??"
Harp Players learn many different ways, the hard way is one you should avoid. Here's a few tips that might come in handy.
When sitting in with a Band:
- Remember your stage etiquette; don't walk on other players solos, dont walk on the vocals.
- Do a sound check if possible when blowing thru the club P.A. system, some mics feedback when cupped And, stay away from the
front of the P.A. speakers, it's feedback city. Remember, nothing turns a crowd OFF like feedback.
- Don't drink too much, there's a fine line that shouldnt be
crossed. You only think you sound better....
- Know the songs and the changes.
- If you have to "wing it", use moderation, less is better.
- The worst mistake I've seen harp players make, is playing
too much... way too much.
- Know your gear, and how to set it up.
- Always carry an extension cord with extra 110 volt receptacles.
- If you use Effect Pedals, bring extra batteries if not using a
110 volt power supply. Batteries always die in the middle of
songs.
- Carry a small flash light, pen light type, Stages can be very dark.
- Don't be a "stage hog" and try to steal the show, it's not your
gig.
- Be kind to everyone, remember you're a guest;
thank everyone in the band, tip when you buy drinks, tell the
owner what a great club they have. In this day and age, people
remember kindness.
- Be humble and modest when getting a compliment. Remember, no matter how good you are, theres always a player
who can kick your butt.
- Last but not least, enjoy. Music is not a competition (unless
you're a guitar player).
Return to the Short Stories main page.
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